Indigenous crafts, culture, and traditions fill Panama's Casco Antiguo

Casco Antiguo in Panama City transformed into a hub for indigenous traditions and cultural expressions during the Indigenous Peoples Artisan Fair. The event brought together representatives from various indigenous communities, offering visitors a glimpse into their rich heritage.

In Plaza Catedral, attendees found a diverse array of artisanal products. These included intricate wood carvings, finely woven basketry, colorful beadwork, and traditional textiles, all reflecting the deep connection these communities share with nature. Alejandra, one of the participating artisans, emphasized the natural origins of her materials, pointing to items made from cocobolo wood, chunga palm fiber, and jagua fruit, noting that no artificial dyes were used.

The fair featured artisans from the Guna, Ngäbe-Buglé, and Wounaan peoples. Ovidio Tocamo, an organizer, mentioned that while Naso and Bribri representatives could not attend due to weather conditions, the event still provided a significant platform for cultural exchange. Beyond crafts, visitors could also sample indigenous gastronomy and interact directly with the artisans, fostering a deeper understanding of their way of life.

Nixeida, another artisan, shared, "We are offering gastronomy, we are sharing our crafts so that they can share with us." The fair also catered to various budgets, with Vielka noting affordable options like blouses and keychains. The event's timing, coinciding with the International Day of Indigenous Peoples on August 9, added special significance.

Tourists exploring Casco Antiguo found the fair to be a captivating stop. Colombian tourist Lorena expressed her delight, "Divine. Look, I bought a little hat, some keychains, and some little earrings made by indigenous girls." The fair not only offered unique souvenirs but also provided memorable encounters with Panama's indigenous cultural expressions.